Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Evelyn N
Published on 2024-02-14 22:14:56
With a strategic move that showcases diplomatic prowess, Philemon Yunji Yang, a former Prime Minister and the current Grand Chancellor of National Orders, is poised to take on the role of the next President of the 79th General Assembly of the United Nations (UN). Yang’s extensive diplomatic experience and outstanding profile have garnered overwhelming endorsement from the African Union Commission (AU), solidifying his status as the preferred candidate for the continent.
The endorsement of Philemon Yang took place during the 44th Ordinary Session of the AU Executive Council at the AU headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Led by Moussa Faki Mahamat, the Chairperson of the African Union Commission, the Executive Council meeting brought together Foreign Affairs Ministers from across Africa to address the continent’s development and promote cooperation for economic growth.
Philemon Yang is vying for the top position at the UN, with a focus on promoting intercultural dialogue. The President of the 79th General Assembly will begin their term on September 24, 2024, and it will conclude on September 24, 2025.
Cameroon’s decision to support Yang as the candidate for the presidency of the UN General Assembly comes after the country’s previous withdrawals from the race, initially in favor of Uganda and later of Nigeria. Experts in international affairs emphasize that this endorsement represents the culmination of Cameroon’s sacrifices and contributions, which has positioned the nation favorably for this prestigious role.
The President made a strong effort to persuade diplomats to back Cameroon’s candidate, highlighting the important role of the UN in addressing global challenges. Biya expressed deep concern regarding the threats to international peace and security, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing dialogue and conciliation over confrontation. During the New Year wishes reception on January 6, 2024, Biya emphasized the significance of the UN’s role in promoting global collaboration and unity.
In order to garner support for Yang’s candidature, the Cameroonian government actively pursued lobbying strategies. On July 6, 2023, the Minister of External Relations, Lejeunne Mbella Mbella, made an official announcement regarding Yang’s candidature to the African diplomatic corps accredited to Yaounde. Mbella Mbella emphasized Yang’s noteworthy impact on domestic politics and policies, portraying him as a compassionate, resolute, knowledgeable, and energetic leader.
Philemon Yang received further support from the Heads of State and Governments of the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS). During their 23rd Conference in Libreville, Gabon, on July 1, 2023, ECCAS leaders expressed their complete support for Yang’s candidature and urged the entire African continent to unite behind him.
Yang has had an illustrious diplomatic career, serving as Prime Minister from June 30, 2009, to January 4, 2019. Yang, hailing from Jikejem-Oku in Oku Subdivision, Bui Division of the North West Region, has an impressive background as a multilingual career diplomat. Notably, he held the esteemed position of Cameroon’s Ambassador to Canada for a remarkable two decades. He brings a wide range of experience, including serving as Assistant Secretary General of the Presidency and Chairman of the African Union Imminent Personalities, where he tackled important issues on a continental level.
Philemon Yang’s appointment as President of the 79th General Assembly of the United Nations underscores Cameroon’s diplomatic skills and dedication to global collaboration. As he takes on this position, the global community will closely observe Yang’s approach to the various obstacles and opportunities on the international platform.
Read the original article(French) on Mimi Mefo Info
